2003 Hyundai Sonata vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (138 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 249 kg more than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Hyundai Sonata, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (301 Nm) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Hyundai Sonata. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Hyundai Sonata | 2004 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1674 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 78 L |
